Religions

Vast majority of Cambodians follow Buddhism. Therevada Buddhism is the state religion which plays a prominent role in Khmer lifestyle. Cambodians people believe in the Karma and the cycle of death and rebirth. It is the notion that reincarnation into a higher or lower status is decided by an individual’s conduct in the previous life.



In the traditional Cambodian society, boys must enter the monkhood for at least three months, often at the age of twelve or thirteen. During this time, they study Buddhist teachings, social morality, and practice praying. Buddhist monasteries are not only the venues for prayer, but also the centers for education, medical care, and administrative organization.

The Islamic faith is practiced by the Cham-Muslim communities of the south east. Like the Buddhists, Cambodia’s Muslim community also experienced persecution at the hands of the Khmer Rouge and many were killed. There are currently estimated to be around 250 mosques in the country, 90 of which are in Kompong Cham Province. Christianity accounts for a small but growing community in Phnom Penh and other urban areas. Animism continues to be the dominant faith amongst the hill tribes.